Frequently asked questions
The acupuncture needles are very fine and you are unlikely to feel them being inserted. Sometimes you may feel a sensation once the needle is inserted - this might be a dull ache, tingling or warmth, and this will pass quickly. Often you will feel nothing at all.
There are acupuncture points all over the body! However, 90% of treatment is carried out either below the knees or the elbows. Occasionally needles are inserted into the torso - your back or tummy - or to the top of your head. Don't worry - your practitioner will always explain where they would like to place the needles.
Our clinic is still following covid guidelines specified by our governing body, The British Acupuncture Council. Because the clinic is a healthcare setting, both the practitioners and patients need to wear masks, unless exempt. We also recommend that you bring a clean bath towel or blanket to keep you warm & covered during treatment, and a drink, such as a bottle of water.
Often, the points that we will need to access are on below your elbows or knees. Sometimes we may need to access points on your back or your tummy, with your permission. That's why we recommend that you bring a small blanket or clean bath towel with you, to keep you covered and warm during treatment.
Yes, Sharon and Hayley are fully qualified after undertaking a comprehensive three year degree or accredited degree-level course, and both keep their skills up to date with continuing professional development. Sharon and Hayley are members of the British Acupuncture Council, adhering to the Council's strict codes of safety and practice.
The practice of multibed treatment has been working in America and China for many years. The aim is to provide those who cannot afford acupuncture on a one-to-one basis with the opportunity of receiving the same quality treatment at a greatly reduced price.
This depends on the individual and how they respond. Some benefit is usually felt by treatment six, some feel better whilst still on the treatment couch but it can depend on the condition. A typical course of treatment starts weekly and as the condition improves the appointments become further apart.
This depends on the individual; often people feel very calm and relaxed while the needles are in and after the treatment. Some people can feel a bit more tired the day of treatment, which disappears after a night's sleep. Sometimes the symptoms that bought you for acupuncture can worsen for a short while - but this is temporary and will pass with subsequent treatments.
How many appointments are needed and over what period of time varies between patients, depending on the condition they would like help with, how bad it is, and how long they have been experiencing the problem. We will be able to give you an indication after your first treatment, and at the start of each session we will review your progress and together decide on your next appointment.
You are welcome to bring in a friend or family member if you want someone to attend the treatment with you. We can put a chair alongside your treatment couch, or there is a waiting area just outside the clinic room. If you are sixteen or under, you will need a parent or legal guardian with you as your practitioner needs their consent to treat you in their presence.
Privacy is protected as we have separate clinic rooms available for private discussion at the first consultation and subsequent sessions if there is anything confidential that you wish to discuss. We also provide screens between the beds to take care of your modesty. We recommend that you bring a blanket with you to keep you covered up and warm while you relax on the bed. In the majority of treatments, only the bottom part of your legs and arms maybe required.
Acupuncture is a very safe and non-invasive therapy. However, sometimes there can be a slight spotting of blood or a bruise, but these are rare. Arnica can be applied to the bruised area. Blood spotting usually lasts only a few seconds.
You can inform your GP, it can be helpful - but it is up to you. We are able to provide your GP with treatment progress with your consent.
The team will never request that you cease or reduce your medication - this MUST be discussed with your GP. It is not unusual for patients to feel less reliant on their medication.
Yes, but it is preferable have a day or two in between to allow the body to benefit from the treatment. Treatments can work well in conjunction with each other.
Yes you can - at all stages of your pregnancy. There is evidence to show that acupuncture can help with some of the problems tha arise in pregnancy. Ask about pre-birth care and help with turning breech babies. If you go over your due dates and have been recommended to try acupuncture by your midwife or consultant, we can offer help and teach you some useful acupressure points to use in labour.
IMPORTANT: you should tell your practitioner if you are pregnant or trying for a baby because this will affect your treatment plan - there are certain points that we do avoid using in these circumstances.